The island ring railway makes Hainan one of the easiest places in China to explore independently.
Island high-speed rail
The ring railway connects Haikou and Sanya in about 1.5–2 hours, with stops at Wenchang, Qionghai/Boao, Wanning and Lingshui. Book on Trip.com with your passport — it works in English and accepts foreign cards.
Taxis and ride-hailing
Didi works in basic English; taxis are plentiful in Sanya and Haikou. Always have your destination written in Chinese.
Car rental
You need a Chinese driver's license or a temporary permit — an international driving permit alone is not accepted. Many visitors hire a car with a driver for day trips instead.
Airport transfers
Sanya Phoenix and Haikou Meilan airports both have rail links into the city; cruise passengers dock at Sanya Phoenix Island port.
Tip Buy train tickets 1–2 days ahead in peak season — popular departures sell out.
Ready to plan your Hainan trip?
Local partner travel agencies usually reply within 24 hours.